About this role
About the Role The Machinist II at Stratolaunch will machine parts, tools and fixtures and work with engineers and shop personnel to ensure the end part meets its intended need. This role involves running provided NC programs on CNC equipment, setting up and inspecting first articles, and running manual machines to meet part requirements. A majority of the parts will be one-off prototype parts requiring a high level of detail and quality control and may require rapid response times to support flight operations; always ensuring safe operations. When not performing machine shop work, you may support composite fabrication or system technician work for aircraft or launch vehicles in a fast-paced environment that emphasizes safety and quality. What You'll Do
- Machine parts to exact specifications using lathes, mills, waterjets, grinders, and other specialized tools; set up, adjust, operate, and inspect all machine tools for precision machining.
- Run provided NC programs on CNC equipment, diagnose machine health, perform maintenance as needed, and read engineering orders, blueprints, and written work instructions.
- Work with engineers, shop lead, and customers to determine proper methods and sequences of operations; apply metallurgy, shop mathematics, layout, and machining procedures.
- Maintain a safe working environment by practicing safe machining procedures, and guide others in safe practices.
- When not machining, support fabrication and layup of components using wet lay-up and pre-preg lay-up processes; assist with carrier aircraft systems and components maintenance.
- Read, interpret, and follow detailed work instructions; contribute to design of parts and fixtures as needed; plan and execute a sequence of operations.
- Be adaptable to a fast-paced environment, work in a small team, and manage time to meet rapid flight operation needs. What We're Looking For
- Excellent communication skills; strong mechanical and metallurgical background.
- Proficiency in blueprint reading and GD&T; skilled with precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gauges, etc.).
- Experience programming CAD/CAM software and machining centers; proficiency in running manual machines.
- Ability to manufacture tight tolerance parts and design parts and fixtures.
- Strong team player who can also work independently, adapt quickly, and plan/execute a sequence of operations; safe operating procedures are a must.
- Machinist II with 5+ years of aerospace industry experience or equivalent; able to perform preventative maintenance on machine tools and work with materials such as Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium, and Inconel.
- CAD knowledge of SolidWorks, CATIA, NX; CAM software knowledge including Mastercam, NX is a plus.
- Physical requirements: able to stand for at least 8 hours and lift up to 50 lbs. Nice to Have
- Experience with CAD/CAM workflows beyond basics; familiarity with advanced CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX) and CAM packages (Mastercam, NX CAM). Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range: $32.00–$50.00/hour (exact offer based on location, education, and experience).
- 9/80 schedule; Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs).
- Paid maternity and parental leave.
- 50% company match on 401(k) contributions up to $11,500.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- May involve operation of company vehicles.